Key Facts
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has directed airport operators in Srinagar, Jammu, and Ayodhya to install full body scanners on a priority basis. Additionally, all airports handling over 50 lakh passengers annually must deploy these scanners. The move aims to enhance threat detection and streamline passenger screening.
Details of the Initiative
On June 17, 2026, a senior government official confirmed the BCAS directive. The scanners are already undergoing trials at Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kochi airports. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which provides security at 73 civil airports, is evaluating the scanners' performance. Trials began in May 2026 and will continue for three months.
The full body scanners can detect both metallic and non-metallic items hidden under clothing, reducing reliance on physical frisking and improving passenger convenience. On April 2, BCAS issued standard operating procedures for these scanners at pre-embarkation security points.
Impact on Security and Passenger Experience
According to the official, the deployment is expected to significantly enhance threat detection while minimising physical contact. The trial will assess operational effectiveness, passenger convenience, privacy safeguards, and integration with existing procedures. The evaluation will guide future policy decisions.
Additional Security Measures and Statistics
Bomb detection and disposal squads are operational at 25 airports, and bomb detection teams at 35 more. Dog squads have been deployed at most airports for explosive detection. In 2025, CISF seized 31.46 kg of gold, 114.13 kg of silver, and ₹52.91 crore in cash being illegally transported. As of May 31, 2026, seizures include 12.779 kg of gold, 23.825 kg of silver, and ₹14.49 crore cash.
CISF is digitising operational records, including explosive detection checks and prohibited item detections. Integration with command centres aims to improve efficiency and data-driven decision-making. Between 2021 and June 17, 2026, CISF detected 63 cases of drugs, including tramadol, cannabis, heroin, and hashish.
What Readers Should Know
- Full body scanners will be installed at Srinagar, Jammu, and Ayodhya airports on priority.
- Trials at four major airports are ongoing to evaluate performance and privacy.
- The technology reduces physical frisking and detects both metallic and non-metallic threats.
- CISF is also enhancing other security measures and digitising operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which airports will get full body scanners on priority?
Srinagar, Jammu, and Ayodhya airports have been directed by BCAS to install full body scanners on priority.
Where are full body scanners already being trialled?
Trials are underway at Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kochi airports since May 2026.
What can full body scanners detect?
They can detect both metallic and non-metallic items concealed under clothing, reducing the need for physical frisking.